Red Bluff >> With temperatures expected to reach 110 degrees by Sunday, the Red Bluff Community Center is opening its doors Saturday, Sunday and Monday as a cooling center for those seeking a cool place to beat the heat.

The center will be open from noon to 9 p.m. each day.

The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory at 4:50 a.m. Friday for Saturday and Sunday, with high temperatures near the century mark previously on Friday and even hotter temperatures expected for the weekend into early next week.

“The City of Red Bluff welcomes the public to get a respite from the heat at the Community Center Saturday, Sunday and Monday,” said Chris Hurton, Community Center and Recreation supervisor. “The Conference Room will be available from noon until 9 p.m. each day as a place to relax out of the heat.” The center will be offering cold water and has vending machines, but members of the public should provide their own meals or snacks, Hurton said.

A small collection of books for adults and children will be put out, and staff will set out a few board games to help pass the time, Hurton said. The pool table and public computer will be available as well on Saturday and Monday.

Having multiple days of heat may increase heat related illnesses for those exposed to prolonged outdoor heat, especially the elderly, children and other sensitive groups, according to the weather service.

The National Weather Service in Sacramento stated high temperatures are expected to reach 105 degrees Saturday and up to 110 degrees over the weekend through Tuesday. Overnight lows in the 60s and 70s over the weekend will be warming up mostly into the 70s early next week.

The heat is expected to gradually subside later next week.

The city will re-evaluate the heat conditions on Tuesday and decide if the center should remain open.

It is especially important for the elderly and the infirm to seek relief from the heat, said City Manager Richard Crabtree. The cooling center is open to all members of the public.

Swimming

The McGlynn pool season is now open for the summer from 1-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday, with swim lessons beginning Monday. From 7-9 a.m. and 5-6:15 p.m. the pool is opening for swimming laps.

Limit exposure

These high temperature conditions could impact locals who spend their time outdoors with long exposure to the sun and heat which could increase chances for heat related illness, especially for those without access to an air conditioning unit.

It is also important to look after livestock and pets who are outside and make sure they have enough water, according to the weather service.

Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. This is especially true during warm or hot weather when car interiors can reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes.

The weather service advises to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors.

When possible, the weather service advises to reschedule strenuous activities to the early morning or evening, know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and wear light weight and loose fitting clothing.

The community center will also be providing more programs for seniors including a meal program for seniors 60 years old and older during the week, as an additional way get out of the heat and have a meal.

On weekdays, seniors are welcome to make a meal reservation with the Senior Nutrition Program by calling 527-2414 a day in advance, Hurton said. The suggested donation is $3.50.